Amethyst Place

We can’t wait to share more about the unparalleled generosity of everyone at WellSky and the transformational impact they are going to make for our families!💜🏠

Last week WellSky teammates celebrated our annual Week of Giving. From volunteering at nonprofits across the country to giving blood and fundraising for Amethyst Place, our teammates went above and beyond to support our communities! WellSky believes deeply in the importance of giving back—and we are committed to helping build healthy, thriving communities. Thank you, teammates, for coming together to make a difference!

Cori's story is a powerful reminder of the life-changing impact of healthcare access and self-advocacy. Cori has been a resident of Amethyst Place for just three months and is working toward reunifying with her one-year-old daughter. One day, she took the time to complete a survey on how the Missouri Medicaid postpartum coverage expansion has impacted her life. It used to cover moms for 60 days postpartum, but now it lasts for a year thanks to recent legislation. Cori's words moved a state lawmaker so much that he reached out to visit her personally and learn more. Missouri State Representative and Speaker Elect, Jon Patterson, wanted to hear how this law had benefited women like Cori. Cori was able to share how the expansion has had a huge impact on her wellbeing. Having extended postpartum coverage has allowed her to get necessary medication, receive dental care, and take care of her mental health. She also shared that without access to healthcare she would not be on her recovery journey -- Medicaid coverage paid for her substance use treatment as well. Cori's story is a testament to the power of advocacy and the importance of supporting mothers and families. What's next for Cori's newfound passion for advocacy? Representative Patterson said he'd like to work with her further to share her story with other lawmakers in Jefferson City. According to Cori, she wants to change the world so that it's a better place when her daughter is her age.

"I now have a car, permit, and tags, thanks to Amethyst Place's direct assistance program. Having reliable transportation is necessary for me and my daughter." This achievement seemed far from reach when Sam and her daughter Uriah moved to Amethyst Place in November 2021. She was too overwhelmed with paying off old utility bills and probationary and court costs. Yet, without a car, her future was limited. That’s where Amethyst Place came in to bridge the gap. After coaching and financial assistance through our financial empowerment program, Sam has her sights set on even bigger accomplishments. "In two years, I’d like to move out of Amethyst and be able to get a different car. My long-term goal is to be able to purchase a home, one that has a large enough yard for Uriah to play in.” - Sam, proud mom and pet groomer

ONE LAST CALL! 🗣️ 🎃🦇 We are still accepting donations of the list below and volunteers to provide spooktacular stations at our Trunk or Treat event on 10/26! 🍭👻 Donations we are still seeking are boxes of individuals variety chips, large bags of candy, and cases of drinks such as soda cans, caprisuns, variety juices, and water bottles. These donations can be dropped off to AP prior or to the event on Saturday between 12-2 PM during set up. Volunteers will be hosting a Halloween themed station. This allows you to let your imagination run wild! ✨ Your station could include a game, a decorated Halloween table with plenty of candy, a spooky craft, or whatever creative ideas you might have! You can reserve your spot at this link, then our team will follow-up to finalize details: https://lnkd.in/eP4-YeFv Have questions? Please contact Ashley Brooks, Sr. Youth Empowerment Coach, at ashley@amethystplace.org.

Please help us welcome Ashley Rudd to the Amethyst Place team! Ashley is our new Philanthropy & Communications Manager. She comes to Amethyst Place with over a decade in the nonprofit education sector and a master's degree in Digital Content Strategy. Read below to learn more about Ashley and her plans to amplify the powerful stories of AP families! Tell us about your role: "As the Philanthropy & Communications Manager at Amethyst Place, I'm passionate about connecting our organization with the community and ensuring our mission reaches as many people as possible. My role involves telling compelling stories about the families we serve and our impact, building relationships with donors, and overseeing our social media presence." What drew you to your position? "After spending 10 years in the nonprofit education sector, I was ready to explore my other interests. I have always had a passion for empowering women and storytelling. I was drawn to this position because of the opportunity to use those passions to make a meaningful impact in the community." What's one goal you hope to accomplish in your first year? "In my first year, I aim to broaden our impact by developing creative ways to share the stories of the mothers and children we support and magnify the wonderful achievements taking place at Amethyst Place!" What's your favorite part about working here so far? "The culture! Everyone has been so welcoming and friendly. You can really tell that everyone is dedicated to the mission!" Anything else you want to share? "Outside of work, I am a mother of two kids - one in college and the other in kindergarten. I enjoy traveling, thrifting, and trying new restaurants in Kansas City. I also own a small business." Ashley is a fantastic addition to the team. You'll be hearing from her on social media soon!

Our annual pumpkin carving night was a success once again! 🎃 The evening was full of smiles, some first time experiences, thriller dancing, and amazing jack o’ lanterns! ✨ Same time next year? 🎃💫

Have you heard of financial well-being? It's the extent to which a person has financial security and financial freedom of choice, regardless of income level. Building financial well-being is an essential part of our program. Erin Hestand, our Adult Empowerment Manager, leads this work individually with moms alongside community partners that provide group programming. As you can see, it's paying off! AP women significantly increased their financial well-being after one year of individual financial coaching and group programming. The average Amethyst Place family performed better than 75% of the US population in their income category. This suggests healthier financial beliefs and practices as families work to stretch their current income and ultimately increase it through vocational and educational pathways. #financialwellbeing #financialliteracy #recovery #hometoheal #amethystplace

We are so fortunate to be part of the 2024 Giving Machines Kansas City! In case you’re not familiar, The Giving Machines are large, red vending machines located inside Kansas City’s Union Station’s main hall, next to the post office. But unlike normal vending machines, the Giving Machines are not about getting, but giving. Instead of getting yourself a candy bar or soda, you can donate to local and global charities with the push of a button. And with price-points from just a few dollars and up, it’s an easy to way for everyone to give this holiday season. Stay posted for details on the launch right after Thanksgiving!

Please help us welcome Mr. Jerry to the Amethyst Place team! He is our new Youth Empowerment Manager and comes to Amethyst Place with years of experience serving kids in residential care. He is also a youth football coach. Read below to learn more about Mr. Jerry and his vision for Amethyst Place youth! Tell us about your role: "My goal is to provide support for our kids and empower the next generation." What drew you to your position? "The website and watching real testimony of AP work in the community. Also to be a part of history with the #GrowAP movement." What's one goal you hope to accomplish in your first year? "My goal, with the help of Ashley and Elle, is to create an interactive experience for our AP youth. Also create positive childhood experiences and develop leaders while teaching new skills." What's your favorite part about working here so far? "Best part about working here is the work environment. Everyone at AP has welcomed me with open arms. Ashley B. is amazing to work with. Also, I believe in Jamila's vision for the YEP Program." We can't wait to see what Jerry and his team accomplish for AP youth! 💜